As we write this, it’s the beginning of a new year. We’ve finished a hectic, crazy 4th quarter that was part of a hectic, crazy year.
But during this hectic, crazy time, we were reminded of why.
Why we do this work.
Why this work matters.
Why this work is more than just work.
And since it’s so easy to forget the why’s, we wanted to share this with you– just in case you ever wonder why you do what you do, too.
The Folded Piece of Paper
Over Thanksgiving, Steve and Hoots were at a Thanksgiving banquet held by one of Oneicity’s rescue mission clients. It’s big outreach event the client holds every year to help people in their community who are experiencing homelessness and hunger.
While they were volunteering at the event, ST and Hoots were able to talk with some of the guests and hear their stories— one of our favorite parts of engaging with clients. But that afternoon, one man floored them.
This older gentleman reached in his pocket and pulled out a folded piece of paper. “Here,” he said. “I don’t need to tell you my story. This is my testimony.”
He held it out to them to read. As they unfolded it, they realized something.
It was an appeal that Oneicity had written and mailed to donors featuring his story. When he read it, he asked for a few copies. He carried it around with him to share with others. Whenever he would run out of copies, he’d ask someone at the rescue mission to print a few more for him.
He’s the why.
Why you do the hard work in nonprofits.
Why your work matters.
Why your work is more than just work.
It’s not about dollars or clicks.
It’s about people.
So remember that when work and life is crazy and you’re wondering if it’s worth all the late nights at work and the extra hours in front of the computer.
Cause it is.
